MEDIA RELEASE

The Otago DHB Board has signed off on a final workplan for the development of a continuum of care for older people in Otago.

In April and May 2004, the Otago DHB distributed over 500 consultation documents, requesting feedback on a proposal for the development of a continuum of care for older people in Otago, entitled "Elder Services Otago". . The Otago District Health Board wishes to sincerely thank all those individuals and groups who put time and effort into making a submission on these issues.

This document outlines the workstream proposals, revised by public consultation input and approved by the Board, for achieving the Otago DHB's objective of a continuum of care for older people in Otago.

The document also includes a summary of submissions which pulls together the key points and issues raised by the 62 submissions received and 4 public meetings held.

The Otago DHB is now prioritising the key components of the six workstreams for implementation, as resources allow over the next 7 years

Hard copies of the document can be obtained by contacting:
Kim Chalmers:
Otago DHB,
Private Bag 1921,
DUNEDIN
Phone 03 474-7976
Fax: 03 474 7737,
or Email: kim.chalmers@otagodhb.govt.nz

or is available online by clicking on the link

http://www.otagodhb.govt.nz/doc/public/elder/Finalworkplanfinal.doc or
by accessing the Otago DHB website at www.otagodhb.govt and clicking on
the "Public Consultation" button

ENDS